In 2012, 34.5% of U.S. households owned 36,117,000 cats and 36.5% owned 43,346,000 dogs. These figures come from the American Veterinary Medical Association. That’s a lot of us with Felis catuses and domesticated canids. As of this summer, I joined the latter group after my family adopted two rescue dogs; coming to us already named Kate and Diana, one outgoing and the other shy. Quite a change since I grew up with two cats and occasional litters of kittens, then owned two cats in my younger adult years. Here are some titles to help those of us new or interested in the world of dogs and their behaviors, needs and lifestyles.

The Seattle Public Library has many more books and also online resources that provide articles and information on pet ownership, specific breeds, training, health and other related topics. Stop by any location or use Ask a Librarian for suggestions on searching the catalog and using the online databases.

Can you guess? I am a converted and happy dog owner now. It’s hard to tell if it’s me or the dog who likes to walk who is most happy for the daily trek around the block. The shy dog likes listening to me read children’s picture books. They both proudly defend the backyard from squirrels. And, yes, these dogs have listened to stories, or the family lore, about some incredible family cats.